For me, renovating not replacing the original cast iron radiators was an easy decision. I like the look of cast iron radiators, and I believe maintaining original details is important to the overall aesthetic of an apartment. The look of cast iron radiators worked well with other details in the apartment such as the ceiling moldings and the traditional wood casement windows. Luckily the radiators were in good shape. They only required sanding and repainting, which since they had to be removed to install the floor, was relatively simple and inexpensive.

However, maintaining the original cast iron radiators is more than an aesthetic decision. The main advantage of modern steel radiators is their low profile and non-descript look. They take up less floor space, though in order to have equivalent heat output they occupy more wall space. If you think about how furniture in most homes is arranged, wall space is often needed for sofas, TVs, beds etc.. If, for example, a sofa is in front of the radiator the sofa will absorb the heat, leaving the room cold.

Cast iron is also better at maintaining heat. Though it heats up more slowly than steel or aluminum the density of cast iron retains heat for a much longer period. Cast iron provides a more consistent ambient heat well after the boiler has shut off.

Cast iron heaters can also be used as a decorative element. They can be topped with pieces of granite or marble and be used as table tops or to hold vases of water which is a natural way to humidify dry winter spaces. And depending on how you paint them they can become an aesthetic feature on their own. I’ve seen them in colors as variable as hot pink and deep forest green. We chose to paint ours the traditional silver, in balance with the apartments overall color scheme of pale greens, rich reds, and silver highlights.

Overall renovating instead of replacing cast iron radiators is a good idea. Not only is it cheaper from the outset, cast iron radiators are more energy efficient and save space. And they look great!